Toronto CityPASS

Students use a quill pen, inkwell, slate and a slate pencil in this examination of writing in a 19th century Canadian school. Exercises include learning about proper school etiquette, practicing perfect handwriting and making a quill pen.

Students explore the writing of ancient Egyptians using self-directed activity booklets and a scarab reproduction. Activities include reading the inscription on the scarab, and learning how to write in ancient Egyptian hieroglyphs.

Using a stylus and a plasticine tablet, students are introduced to ancient Mesopotamian writing. Activities include writing simple sentences in cuneiform and examining a reproduced ancient cuneiform tablet.

By comparing a 19th century quilt sample with a modern version, students explore the technical mastery and traditions of this craft. Other activities include studying the pattern of pioneer quilts and reconstructing the geometry of quilt design.

Travel to a Japanese tattoo parlour, and drop in on an ancient Egyptian party! Through the examination of a variety of ROM objects and museum reproductions, students are introduced to the language and art of body decoration, across a broad spectrum of cultures and peoples.

Using an ink brush, ink stone and ink stick students are introduced to Japanese writing. Other exercises include an examination of Japanese characters, signature seals, and a modern Japanese publication.

This examination includes playing with contemporary and traditional Japanese toys and games. Activities include drawing a kokeshi (wooden) doll, designing a Japanese kite and learning how to play Jan Ken Pon.

Through self-directed activity booklets, students learn how to write Japanese numbers and use a soroban (abacus). Activities include writing Japanese characters and doing simple addition and subtraction on the soroban.

A selection of Japanese dishware and utensils introduces students to traditional and modern Japanese cooking. Areas explored include food preparation, dishware decoration, and learning how to use chopsticks (hashi) and a rice paddle.